Considering Sat Nav
Why not consider using your mobile instead?
Mobiles with built in GPS are becoming more widely available, but what if your handset isn’t one of them? You may be considering purchasing a separate Sat Nav system, like TomTom or Garmin. However, your mobile can offer you an alternative thanks to developments in the latest mapping software.
So what are the options?
Google Maps
Currently the most common mapping solution
Pre installed on many Sony Ericsson, Apple iPhone handsets.
Can be downloaded for free
Works on triangulation
Provides 2D maps or satellite views
Provides turn-by-turn driving directions (although not currently by voice)
Uses local Google search engine to find places of interest i.e. enter the word McDonalds and it will direct you to their nearest branch.
From your handset visit m.google.com/maps
From your PC visit www.google.com/gmm
MyMultimap Mobile
Works on triangulation.
User sends text (25p) to MyMultimap and you receive map of your area.
If triangulation is unavailable you can text postcode instead.
Each new map costs 25p.
Users can search for a map on their PC first before sending it to their phone.
Visit www.multimap.co.uk
Yell.com Mobile Maps
Free to download (although data charges will apply).
Users can locate any UK address before planning both walking and riving routes.
Includes auto-complete which suggests destinations as you are typing.
Map is presented in 2D format and you can zoom in close enough to see the outline of specific buildings.
Download at www.yellmobile.com
Nokia Maps
GPS is crucial to Nokia’s high-end handsets and they consequently have an impressive mapping solution.
Maps 2.0 includes users interface, which can be changed from Birds-Eye to arrow, to standard navigation view.
Multiple stops can be planned.
Public transport facilities are highlighted i.e. station entrances, stops etc.
“One-box” search provides a fast location service of restaurants, bars, hotels etc.
Nokia maps has maps for over 200 countries.
Download at www.maps.nokia.com
The Samsung i8510, Samsung Engineering with Nokia Software
You may think you have read the headline incorrectly, but your eyes are not deceiving you.
Samsung have unveiled the i8510, a mobile phone built using Samsung technology but incorporating Nokia software. And, if you are looking to replace your Nokia N95 and are considering the N96 you may need to think again…
This is of course not the first time Samsung have used Nokia software, but this handset is by far the most impressive.
The i8510 will be available with 8 or 16GB of storage and further memory can be added.
Features include:
Nokia S60 interface means the phone is easy to use and navigate
Quick Office, allowing access to Word, Excel and PowerPoint files.
You can also view pdf files and access zip files.
To watch videos Samsung has added the latest version of RealPlayer including DivX files. Thanks to the 16-million colour display this phone is perfect for movies.
The video camera will record at 640×480 pixels (VGA) and can record in two slow motion modes (like the LG Viewty).
The camera is the jewel in the crown of this handset, with and 8MP sensor. The i8510 really does work well in all light and weather conditions and produces sharp photos that are comparable to a standalone digital camera.
Samsung has outdone Nokia in terms of the camera interface, with more features than the N96, like face, smile and blink detection, easy access shortcuts via the keypad and GPS geotagging. The picture viewer is also more superior than the N96.
So, is this the perfect mobile? Well, not quite. On the downside the i8510 has quite limited signal. If you are on the move this could be frustrating and this is something to bear in mind.
This is the only shortfall in what is actually a 5 star mobile phone, which will surely be raising concerns at Nokia!
Ignore the i8510 at your peril!
Sony Ericsson Launch Large Screen G705
Sony Ericsson has joined in with the craze of releasing a mobile with a large screen.
No longer are we all clamouring for tiny handsets which could fit through the eye of a needle.
It seems size really is important!
The G705 has a 2.4inch display and to allow for a decent sized keyboard the handset is a slider.
It’s quite attractive too and rewards the user with easy internet browsing and multimedia use.
In terms of features and specification this is standard Sony Ericsson, with 3.2MP camera, GPS and HSDPA.
However this handset also benefits from Wi-Fi and DLNA certification too meaning content can be shared around the home with other certified equipment.
For those who enjoy YouTube the handset has the added benefit of being able to download directly to the site.
A Phone for the Ladies?
Motorola has its sights firmly on the ladies and is looking to capture those all-important Christmas sales with the launch of the Motojewel.
This phone is aimed entirely at the female market, thanks to its jewel-like design.
The handset resembles a diamond and is sure to add a touch of bling to the Motorola range.
Feature wise it is essentially the same as the Motorola U9, with a 2MP camera, CrystalTalk sound quality, one touch music access etc). However, it is the package as a whole that should appeal to the fairer sex. In addition to the stunning diamond like handset there is a stylish mini-clutch to hold the phone, whilst leaving room for lipstick credit card and coins.
If you are looking for a gift for your loved one this Christmas or just looking to treat yourself to a stylish mobile then the Motojewel deserves close consideration.
For more info see www.hellomoto.com